Merz: China visit met expectations, Germany to strengthen ties, resume government consultations

2026-02-26 - 12:12

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz wrapped up his inaugural official visit to China on Thursday, stating from the technology hub of Hangzhou that the trip had fully met expectations and that he was "returning home with many good impressions and with many tasks that we still have to tackle together." Merz emphasized his determination to strengthen relations, declaring "we should strengthen relations with China. I am, in any case, determined to do that. This applies to political dialogue, but also to economic cooperation." Resumption of Governmental Consultations The chancellor announced that Germany and China plan to resume governmental consultations, with the next meeting scheduled by early next year, possibly later this year, with China serving as host. "I look forward to the next visit to the People's Republic of China and further good exchanges, politically and also in terms of economic policy," he stated. The consultations had been paused amid pandemic disruptions and subsequent diplomatic tensions. Addressing Economic Challenges Merz indicated that various issues would be discussed in the coming weeks and months, including challenges faced by German companies operating in China, the impact of Chinese industrial overcapacity on European markets, and opportunities for closer economic cooperation. He announced he would ask his economy minister to pay a follow-up visit to China, stating "we are seeking to improve our good cooperation, and we will also address the difficult issues quite openly." The balanced approach reflects Berlin's effort to maintain robust economic ties while addressing growing European concerns about unfair competition and market access.